Israel and Hamas appear to have accepted an Egyptian proposal for a long-term ceasefire after seven weeks of war. According to UK’s Channel 4 News “an Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said “a complete and unlimited-in-time ceasefire” had been agreed”. “Israel has also agreed to open its borders to allow humanitarian aid and building materials to be sent to Gaza, as well as the widening of Gaza’s fishing zone in the Mediterranean.” “Other issues”, such as Israel’s demand that Hamas disarms, will be dealt with at indirect, Egyptian-mediated talks “within one month from the start of the ceasefire”, according to the Egyptian government”.
“Israel and the Palestinians will also discuss the construction of a Gaza sea port and the release of Hamas prisoners in the occupied West Bank.” “Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said the “Palestinian leadership” had agreed ” a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire” starting at 4pm GMT on Tuesday afternoon.”
